Business Details
31 Years
experience
Strategic Communications Consultancy in London
Stratagem is a leading independent strategic communications and public affairs consultancy dedicated to helping organisations navigate the complexities of politics, policymaking, and media across the UK and Ireland. With a team of fifty consultants, we combine deep political insight with strategic communications expertise to influence decision-makers and deliver measurable results. Our consultants include former politicians, journalists, advisors, and communications specialists who bring unparalleled experience from across the political spectrum. We have earned a reputation for excellence through our work with global brands, organisations, and leaders, achieving meaningful change in the economy, society, and environment.Our expertise spans all major UK and Irish political institutions, including Westminster, Stormont, Holyrood, the Senedd, and the Dil. We are committed to the highest professional standards, evidenced by our accreditations from the PRCA, Investors in People Gold Standard, and the Consultancy Management Standard. Our award-winning track record, including multiple PRCA Awards and three Chartered Institute for Public Relations Excellence Awards, underscores our position as a trusted partner for strategic communications and public affairs.
Services
Public Affairs Strategy
Planning Engagement
Strategic Communications
Political Intelligence
Crisis Management
Media Training
Event Management
Design & Digital Campaigns
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Award-winning strategic communications consultancy with three CIPR Excellence Awards
- Team of experts with direct experience in UK and Irish political institutions
- Proven track record influencing policy across Westminster, Stormont, Holyrood, and the Dil
- Accredited by the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA)
- Specialists in crisis communications and media relations with former journalists on staff
Associations and certifications
- PRCA
- Investors in People
- Consultancy Management Standard (CMS)
Services
Public Affairs Strategy
We develop tailored public affairs strategies to help organisations navigate political and policy landscapes. Our consultants provide expert guidance on engaging with decision-makers across Westminster, Stormont, Holyrood, and the Dil. With former politicians and advisors on our team, we deliver actionable insights that shape legislation and regulatory frameworks to align with client objectives.
Strategic Communications
Our strategic communications services protect and enhance organisational reputations through media relations and crisis communications. Former journalists and communications specialists craft compelling narratives that engage stakeholders and the public. We provide proactive messaging strategies and reactive support for organisations facing media scrutiny or reputational challenges across all sectors.
Political Intelligence
We offer comprehensive political intelligence services tracking developments across UK and Irish institutions. Our monitoring covers Westminster, Whitehall, devolved parliaments, and public bodies to provide clients with timely insights. This service helps organisations anticipate policy changes and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the political landscape.
Crisis Management
Our crisis management team specialises in mitigating reputational damage from negative media coverage. We develop proactive response strategies and provide real-time support during crises. Drawing on experience from government and corporate sectors, we help organisations protect their brand integrity and maintain stakeholder trust during challenging situations.
Media Training
We equip clients with essential media skills through tailored training programs. Our journalists and communications experts teach effective techniques for broadcast, print, and digital engagements. The training covers message delivery, interview handling, and crisis communication to ensure clients present their positions confidently and professionally across all media platforms.
People
Andy Sawford
Managing Partner
Former Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister with extensive experience in media and political strategy. Provides senior counsel on issues management and crisis communications to major clients across all sectors.
Laura Blake
Partner
Recognised public affairs consultant advising clients across public, private and charitable sectors. Specialises in strategic advice and has led award-winning campaigns for organisations like the London Mathematical Society.
Paul Church
Director
Specialist in education, health and tech sectors with experience as government advisor and communications leader. Provides strategic counsel to globally-recognised organisations on policy objectives and profile enhancement.
Grinne Walsh
Director, Connect Belfast
Experienced public affairs practitioner with two decades of political advisory experience across Ireland. Leads Belfast operations and provides strategic counsel on political engagement and crisis communications to senior leaders.
Catriona Matheson
Director, Linco Edinburgh
Former Special Adviser to the First Minister in the Scottish Government. Leads Connect's Scotland team and brings deep political expertise from roles as Chief of Staff to SNP Leader in Westminster.
Questions
What areas do you operate in?
We work across the UK and Ireland, with specialist teams in London, Belfast, and Edinburgh focusing on Westminster, Stormont, and Holyrood institutions.
What sectors do you specialise in?
We advise clients in education, health, technology, energy, housing, and the built environment, with dedicated experts in each sector.
How do you help with planning applications?
We provide political and community engagement strategies to secure planning consent for housing, infrastructure, and major development projects nationwide.
What crisis communications support do you offer?
Our team develops proactive strategies and provides real-time support to protect organisational reputations during media scrutiny or reputational challenges.
Are you an accredited consultancy?
Yes, we are accredited by the PRCA, hold Investors in People Gold Standard, and comply with the Consultancy Management Standard (CMS).
Can you help with political event organisation?
We organise parliamentary events, conferences, and receptions that bring stakeholders together and create opportunities for engagement with decision-makers.
